Origins of Plastids looks at symbiosis and symbiogenesis as a mechanism of evolution. This theory of endosymbiotic evolution postulates that photosynthetic prokaryotes living as endosymbionts within eukaryotic cells gradually evolved into the organelle structures called chloroplasts. The theory is controversial but has been strongly advocated by Lynn Margulis. Based on a colloquium held at the Bodega Bay Marine Laboratory of the University of California at Davis, Origins of Plastids reviews recent data on this most basic problem in plant evolution. In it, leading researchers in the field apply the theory of endosymbiotic evolution to plastid origins, producing an important new reference work for both professionals and graduates interested in the origins of life, the origins of the eukaryotic cell and its organelles, and the evolution of the higher plants in general. Origins of Plastids represents the state-of-the-art in its field. It should find a place on the bookshelves of people interested in microbiology, plant science, phycology, cell biology, and evolution.

With one volume each year, this series keeps scientists and advanced students informed of the latest developments and results in all areas of the plant sciences. The present volume includes reviews on genetics, cell biology, physiology, comparative morphology, systematics, ecology, and vegetation science.

Progress and Future of Pyrethroids, by Yoshio Katsuda Pyrethrin Biosynthesis and Its Regulation in Chrysanthemum cinerariaefolium, by Kazuhiko Matsuda Recent Advances of Pyrethroids for Household Use, by Kazuya Ujihara, Tatsuya Mori and Noritada Matsuo The Biological Activity of a Novel Pyrethroid: Metofluthrin, by Masayo Sugano and Takao Ishiwatari Advances in the Mode of Action of Pyrethroids, J. Marshall Clark and Steven B. Symington Mammal Toxicology of Synthetic Pyrethroids, by Ryozo Tsuji, Tomoya Yamada and Satoshi Kawamura Biotransformation and Enzymatic Reactions of Synthetic Pyrethroids in Mammals, by Kazuki Mikata, Naohiko Isobe and Hideo Kaneko Environmental Behavior of Synthetic Pyrethroids, by Toshiyuki Katagi Ecotoxicology of Synthetic Pyrethroids, by S. J. Maund, P. J. Campbell, J. M. Giddings, M. J. Hamer, K. Henry, E. D. Pilling, J. S. Warinton and J. R. Wheeler

Many aspects of phytogeography have gained loped numerical techniques which allow the com greatly from the recent development of analytical bination of quantitative floristic and vegetational and numerical methods. The new methods have analyses with mapping and causal or evolu opened up new avenues of research, leading to a tionary deductions. The papers selected for the better understanding of the distribution and book show approaches for higher and lower plant evolutionary patterns of species and communities. forms. Several papers dealing with relevant in During the 1987 Botanical Congress in Berlin, formation on vegetation for the respective areas Drs Nimis and Haeupler organized a symposium appear for the first time. The combination of in which examples of present-day phytogeogra new approaches successfully applied to new phic work were discussed. After the symposium problems should be very stimulating to young it was agreed that a proceedings volume should scientists as many papers demonstrate how to be edited by Drs Nimis and Crovello. From the make efficient use of the new developments in lectures presented, those dealing primarily with information science for species-oriented phyto numerical methods were selected for the book. geography. This is the second volume of the T: VS series that While the book does not intend to serve as a deals with new aspects and methods of phyto textbook, it can be viewed as a guide to the geography."

The plant' is often the most neglected part of plant-based medicine. Throughout time, humans have searched, collected, and effectively used plants for healing. Currently, the medicinal plant-based business is flourishing at a dramatic pace and at the expense of an already declining population of plant species, many of which are on the verge of extinction. In spite of this history and popularity, the mystery of what transforms a plant into a medicinal plant persists, and there are chronic problems with ensuring the safety and efficacy of medicinal plant products. Therefore, there is a real need for a full characterization of medicinal plant species and for the development and application of novel technologies for the production of plant-based medicines. This book highlights some of the recent advances and new approaches to the development of technologies for plant-based medicines and is intended to stimulate new discussions among researchers, regulatory authorities, and pharmaceutical organizations, leading to significant advancements in the field.

This book is highly recommended on the basis of the following points:

- The editors are highly regarded in the field of mycorrhizal biology and one is co-author of the most comprehensive textbook on mycorrhizas;
- Chapters by international experts based on invited presentations at the 3rd International Conference on Mycorrhizas, supplemented by invited chapters on special topics;
- Mycorrhizas are being increasingly recognised as ubiquitous plant/fungal symbioses, with the potential to influence the function and ecology of around 90% of all land plants; perhaps the most common and also ancient terrestrial symbioses in existence;
- This book has a broad coverage of biology of symbioses between mycorrhizal fungi and plants, especially ecto- and arbuscular mycorrhizas (other recent texts have focused mainly on arbuscular mycorrhizal symbioses);
- Forward-looking review chapters by keynote speakers including an overview of research challenges for the future;
- Up-to-date research focus;
- Coverage includes: molecular diversity and detection of mycorrhizal fungi; cellular and molecular interactions between the symbionts; physiology of the interactions; implications of the symbioses for ecosystem processes, including agriculture;
- Several complementary chapters on some topics, ensuring that different perspectives are presented (recent edited volumes have had a smaller group of authors and hence narrower focus);
- Readership from advanced undergraduate students in biology (particularly plant science), postgraduate students and researchers in universities and government agencies.

Originally published in 1899, The History of Creation is a two volume set which applies a doctrine to the whole range of organic morphology and make use of the effect Darwin had on biological sciences during the 19th century. Haeckel looks at Darwin's reform of Descent Theory and its establishment through the doctrine of selection. He introduces Descent Theory into the systematic classification of animals and plants and finds a "natural system" on the basis of genealogy - that is, to construct hypothetical pedigrees for the various species of organisms. The book will be of interest to those studying natural history and the origins of modern scientific thought, it will appeal to researchers both in the natural sciences and in history.

"Fungal-Plant Interactions" is a synthesis of fungal physiology, plant pathology and biology for undergraduates and researchers. Interactions between higher plants and fungi at the cellular and biochemical level are covered together with their ecological importance and theories as to their evolution. Interactions between fungi and higher plants are considered at the cellular and whole plant level. The book gives an integrated presentation of aspects of fungal physiology, whole plant physiology, plant physiology and fungal ecology which are so often approached as separate disciplines. A modern treatment of the effects of fungal invasion on host plant physiology and biochemistry is made by reference to current experimental work and the use of new techniques and approaches as examples. The significance of fungal growth habits and life-style is considered in terms of the interaction strategies adopted, from mutualistic to biotrophic and necrotrophic interactions. Current views concerning the ecological importance and evolution of these strategies is discussed.

Natural grasslands, pastures and meadows are among the vegetation types most frequently investigated with phytosociological methods. This was one of the reasons why volume 13, Application of vegetation science to grassland husbandry and agriculture, edited by W. Krause, appeared as one of the first volumes of this handbook. It appeared under the chief editorship of Prof. R. Tiixen and in his time main emphasis of the handbook was placed on Ziirich-Montpellier methods and the European vegetation. When we redesigned the handbook we felt the need to include other methods and aims of grassland analyses as well as a more global coverage of grasslands. Especially the natural dry and semidry areas of the world needed to be covered. was very fortunate in getting Prof. Tueller of the University of Reno I Nevada as an editor for this volume. He and the colleagues he motivated to compile volume 14 on Application of vegetation science to rangeland analysis and management have created a truly global coverage of the topics interesting for vegetation analyses in natural grasslands. Since volume 13 covered the problems of anthropogenically created grasslands, this topic was not expressly treated in order to avoid duplication. For the same reason no specific attempt was made to get more papers from Europe and the temperate forest region in general. The cooperation with Dr. Tueller has been very rewarding for me.

By 1988 the Handbook of Vegetation Science is well on its way to completion. With 7 volumes in circulation, 3 volumes in the press, and most of the remaining volumes in preparation it appears that the total task can be completed in the early 'nineties. I am especially thankful to Professor Symoens for accepting the task of editing the volume on aquatic vegetation. The main emphasis of work in phytosociology is devoted to land plants, yet the landscape analysis remains incomplete without the consideration of rivers and lakes. Avolume on inland aquatic vegetation must therefore be most helpful to the land vegetation analyst and not only to the specialist on aquatic vegetation. Professor Symoens succeeded in drafting the most competent team for his task. I am sure that all colleagues working in vegetation analysis will be grateful to them that they have taken the time and energy to complete their chapters. Handbook articles are not easy to write and certainly not easy to edit. in the landscape are treated. The The major aquatic components vegetation analysts will welcome the fact that certain physiological and ecological processes of water plants are covered for which otherwise they would have to consult the limnological literature. This volume, together with the forthcoming volume on wetlands, should completely cover the inland aquatic vegetation problematic.

An in-depth exploration of the applications of plant bioactive metabolites in drug research and development

Highlighting the complexity and applications of plant bioactive metabolites in organic and medicinal chemistry, "Plant Bioactives and Drug Discovery: Principles, Practice, and Perspectives" provides an in-depth overview of the ways in which plants can inform drug research and development. An edited volume featuring multidisciplinary international contributions from acclaimed scientists researching bioactive natural products, the book provides an incisive overview of one of the most important topics in pharmaceutical studies today.

With coverage of strategic methods of natural compound isolation, structural manipulation, natural products in clinical trials, quality control, and more, and featuring case studies on medicinal plants, the book serves as a definitive guide to the field of plant biodiversity as it relates to medicine. In addition, chapters on using natural products as drugs that target specific disease areas, including neurological disorders, inflammation, infectious diseases, and cancer, illustrate the myriad possibilities for therapeutic applications.

Wide ranging and comprehensive, "Plant Bioactives and Drug Discovery" also includes important information on marketing, regulations, intellectual property rights, and academic-industry collaboration as they relate to plant-based drug research, making it an essential resource for advanced students and academic and industry professionals working in biochemical, pharmaceutical, and related fields.

The aim of this book is to give an overview of the most important aspects of physiological and biochemical basis for metal toxicity and tolerance in plants. The book is expected to serve as a reference to university and college teachers, students of plant sciences, environmental biology, environmental biotechnology, agriculture, horticulture, forestry, plant molecular biology, and genetics.

Peatlands are fascinating ecosystems. They are Boudewijn Beltman, Jon den Held, Harm Piek, inhabited by a wealth of especially adapted plant Drs. Niek van Heijst, Drs. Hermien van Sloch- species, such as peat mosses, insectivorous teren and Dr. Taeke Stol, who participated in plants, and nitrogen-fixing shrubs. They also the early stages of the process. The help of Drs. have a 'memory' often going back thousands of G. J. Baayens in the correction of chapter 5 is years, recorded in the layers of plant remains gratefully acknowledged. accumulated underneath the present plant cover. Chapters 6 and 7 have been supported by the Many peatlands are relatively low-productive foundation 'Oecologia Trajectina', Utrecht, by and species-rich, and show vegetational gradients supplying grants made available by the 'Prins related to water chemistry. Bernhard Fonds', Amsterdam and the 'Beij- Peatlands have long been recognized for many erinck-Popping Fonds', Amsterdam. I am indeb- values. The most conspicuous values appreciated ted to Marjolein Smithuizen and Dick Smit of for the Dutch mires were probably the great the Illustration division of the faculty of Biology, potential of the large nutrient stores in peat soils University of Utrecht, for the large number of for agricultural purposes, and the high calorific drawings they produced for the book. Gerrie value of peat when used as a fuel. These values Bransen helped with the printing of the final have led to large-scale exploitation and destruc- versions of the various chapters.

Transposable elements are short lengths of DNA with the capacity to move between different points within a genome. This process can affect the function of genes at or near the insertion site. The present book gives an overview of the impact of transposable elements on plant genomes and explains how to recognize and study transposable elements, e.g. by using state-of-the-art strategies like "new generation sequencing." Moreover, the impact of transposable elements on plant genome structure and function is reviewed in detail, and also illustrated in examples and case studies. The book is intended both for readers familiar with the field and for newcomers. With large-scale sequencing becoming increasingly available, more and more people will come across transposable element sequences in their data, and this volume will hopefully help to convince them that they are not just "junk DNA."

."..the book offers a platform to raise thought-provoking questions and encourages in-depth analyses to bridge the gulf between ethnobotany and medical anthropology...Highly recommended." Choice

"The tantalising and rather eclectic selection of edited chapters takes the reader around the world following plants making their way into local pharmacopoeias, symbolic systems, myths and ways of coping with the unknowns of human illness. This book offers a much needed, concise edited volume on plants, health and healing. It brings together research in the disciplines of botany, biochemistry, clinical medicine, anthropology and history highlighting the contributions of multidisciplinary research to promote a more nuanced understanding of medicinal plant use." JRAI

Plants have cultural histories, as their applications change over time and with place. Some plant species have affected human cultures in profound ways, such as the stimulants tea and coffee from the Old World, or coca and quinine from South America. Even though medicinal plants have always attracted considerable attention, there is surprisingly little research on the interface of ethnobotany and medical anthropology. This volume, which brings together (ethno-)botanists, medical anthropologists and a clinician, makes an important contribution towards filling this gap. It emphasises that plant knowledge arises situationally as an intrinsic part of social relationships, that herbs need to be enticed if not seduced by the healers who work with them, that herbal remedies are cultural artefacts, and that bioprospecting and medicinal plant discovery can be viewed as the epitome of a long history of borrowing, stealing and exchanging plants.

Elisabeth Hsu is Professor of Anthropology at the University of Oxford, where she has convened its master's courses in medical anthropology since 2001. Based on her earlier studies in biology (botany), linguistics and sinology, she has published widely on the history and anthropology of Chinese medicine.

Stephen Harris was awarded a Ph.D. in plant systematics from the University of St. Andrews in 1990. He has been the Druce Curator of Oxford University Herbaria since 1995 and has published over 50 peer-reviewed papers on genetics and systematics associated with the evolutionary consequences of plant-human interactions.

This volume focuses and describes tools, assays, and techniques used to enhance the understanding of the role of auxins and cytokinins. The chapters in this book cover topics such as: microbial manipulation of auxin and cytokinins in plants; interplay between auxin and cytokinin and its impact on MAPK; H2O2 production in Arabidopsis leaves; crosstalk between jasmonate and auxin in plant stress responses of roots; and high-throughput protoplast trans-activation (PTA) screening. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Cutting-edge and comprehensive, Auxins and Cytokinins in Plant Biology: Methods and Protocols is a valuable resource to plant scientists, graduate and under graduate students in addressing their biological questions relevant to the functional implications of auxin and cytokinins.

This proceedings is based on a joint meeting of the two IUFRO (International Union of Forestry Research Organizations) Working Parties, Somatic Cell Genetics (S2.04-07) and Molecular Genetics (S2.04-06) held in Gent, Belgium, 26-30 September, 1995. Although a joint meeting of the two Working Parties had been discussed in the past, this was the first such meeting that became a successful reality. In fact this meeting provided an excellent forum for discussions and interactions in forest bioteclUlology that encouraged the participants to vote for a next joint meeting. In the past decade rapid progress has been made in the somatic cell genetics and molecular genetics of forest trees. In order to cover recent developments in the broad area of biotechnology, the scientific program of the meeting was divided into several sessions. These included somatic embryogenesis, regeneration, transformation, gene expression, molecular markers, genome mapping, and biotic and abiotic stresses. The regeneration of plants, produced by organogenesis or somatic embryogenesis, is necessary not only for mass cloning of forest trees, but also for its application in genetic transformation and molecular biology. Although micropropagation has been achieved from juvenile tissues in a number of forest tree species, in vitro regeneration from mature trees remains a challenging problem in most hardwoods and conifers. The mechanisms involved in the transition from juvenile to mature phase in woody plants are poorly understood. This transition can now be investigated at the molecular level.

Polyploidy - whole-genome duplication (WGD) - is a fundamental driver of biodiversity with significant consequences for genome structure, organization, and evolution. Once considered a speciation process common only in plants, polyploidy is now recognized to have played a major role in the structure, gene content, and evolution of most eukaryotic genomes. In fact, the diversity of eukaryotes seems closely tied to multiple WGDs. Polyploidy generates new genomic interactions - initially resulting in "genomic and transcriptomic shock" - that must be resolved in a new polyploid lineage. This process essentially acts as a "reset" button, resulting in genomic changes that may ultimately promote adaptive speciation. This book brings together for the first time the conceptual and theoretical underpinnings of polyploid genome evolution with syntheses of the patterns and processes of genome evolution in diverse polyploid groups. Because polyploidy is most common and best studied in plants, the book emphasizes plant models, but recent studies of vertebrates and fungi are providing fresh perspectives on factors that allow polyploid speciation and shape polyploid genomes. The emerging paradigm is that polyploidy - through alterations in genome structure and gene regulation - generates genetic and phenotypic novelty that manifests itself at the chromosomal, physiological, and organismal levels, with long-term ecological and evolutionary consequences.

The Annual Beltsville Symposium serves as a forum for presenting recent developments in basic research that contribute solutions to agricultural problems. The eleventh in this series focuses on instrumentation tech niques which provide powerful new research tools. These tools will provide information that can lead to a better understanding of biological and physical processes critical to the solution of today's agricultural problems. The tools discussed include isotope technology, separation techniques, microscopy, electro-magnetic spectroscopy, resonance and mass spectrometry and microcomputers. This Symposium brought together scientists who are at the forefront of the development of many of these tools and those who are applying them to problems directly related to agricultural research. WALDEMAR KLASSEN, Director Beltsville Area VII CONTRIBUTORS AND THEIR AFFILIATIONS Norman G. Anderson Youhanna Fares Proteus Technologies, Inc. Phytokinetics Inc. Rockville, MD 20852 College Station, TX 77840 U.S.A. U.S.A. Cherie L. Fisk Edwin D. Becker Office of Research Services Office of Research Services NIH NIH Bethesda, MD 20892 Bethesda, MD 20892 U.S.A. U.S.A. Klaus Biemann John D. Goeschl Phytokinetics, Ltd. Department of Chemistry College Station, TX 77840 Massachusetts Institute of Technology Cambridge, MA 02139 U.S.A. U.S.A. R.J. Griesbach Florist and Nursery Crops Laboratory B.A. Bolton Development Quality Laboratory Horticultural Science Institute Agricultural Research Service USDA Western Regional Research Center Beltsville, MD 20705 Agricultural Research Service USDA U.S.A. Albany, CA 94710 U.S.A."